Philippine senator wants new online gaming regulator created

Philippine Senator Richard Gordon announced during a recent senate hearing that he wishes to see a new regulator created for the regulation of online gaming in the Philippines. Gordon feels that a new regulator would be better equipped to oversee the booming industry by using new technology. The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp would be left to oversee the land-based gaming venues.

Gordon suggests that the new group created be called the Philippine Online Gaming and Regulatory Authority and that they use new technology to handle the $250 billion online gaming industry of the country. Gordon spoke during the Senate hearing about the creation of the new group after the hearing was called to discuss allegations involving casino tycoon Jack Lam and attempted bribery.

The proposal by Gordon did receive some support during the hearing. According to Asia Gaming Brief, Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre is in agreement with Gordon and feels that a regulator dedicated to online gambling would help to eliminate gray areas.

Online gambling has been a hot topic in the Philippines since last year when President Rodrigo Duterte took office. Shortly after Duterte took over, he called for a ban of online gaming which left the industry reeling. Since that time, Duterte has backtracked and allowed the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp to provide more online gaming licensing. First Cagayan, was also allowed to continue with the issuance of licenses.

Philippine senator wants new online gaming regulator created was last modified: March 10th, 2017 by Marie Kelley